Spain were in UEFA Nations League action on Tuesday night, and fell to a shock defeat against Ukraine.
Luis Enrique’s side travelled over to Kiev with many backing them despite patchy performances in the 0-0 draw with Portugal and 1-0 win over Switzerland.
Their lack of goal threat was apparent once again, as they drew a blank against Ukraine, despite starting with Ansu Fati, Rodrigo Moreno and Adama Traore in the final third.
Ukraine had to withstand real pressure, and then hit Spain with the sucker punch as Viktor Tsygankov was played in on goal and he fired past David De Gea.
With just one goal scored in three games over this international break, there is a real inquest into Spain’s performances – with mixed fortunes for a couple of Leeds United and Tottenham players.
Marca rated the players involved, and ranked Leeds striker Rodrigo as the 11th best player out of 15 for Spain, suggesting that he ‘wasn’t great’ despite having a fine header saved in the first half.
Marca may not have been too impressed with Leeds’ big-money summer signing, but they at least praised Tottenham left back Sergio Reguilon.
Reguilon was ranked second out of 15, suggesting that he ‘did his job well’ and got involved in the attack well, with Sergio Ramos the only Spain player to come out with a better ranking.
Given that Reguilon picked up a knock last week, this review will be a major boost for Tottenham – and fans will hope for more of the same against West Ham United this weekend, whilst Leeds fans will pray that Rodrigo doesn’t have his confidence hit, having scored against Manchester City before the international break.
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